Osteoporosis screening is needed to prevent fractures

Older adults, particularly women, should talk to their doctor about bone density testing and possibly a prescription to buy Fosamax, as experts say the condition often goes undiagnosed until a person experiences a fracture.

Dr. Andrew Bunta, a physician at Northwestern University, told the Chicago Tribune that the number of women who experience broken bones is very high. However, many of these cases could have been prevented if the women were diagnosed early enough in the progression of their diseases.

"[It is] a silent disease unless someone gets a bone fracture, [so] it is important to get people to pay attention to bone health," Bunta told the news source. "Persons over age 50 should get a bone scan every two years."

He added that fractures related to osteoporosis are more common than breast cancer, heart disease and strokes combined.

This is why early prevention is key. Individuals can start building strong bones early on in life by getting plenty of vitamin D and calcium and exercising regularly. Screening is important during adulthood. The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommends regular testing for osteoporosis for all women over the age of 65.